Pilocytic astrocytoma is a form of brain cancer, or neoplasm, most often found in children and young adults. This type of cancer is normally slow growing, well-contained and offers a good prognosis with early detection and treatment. The treatment differs from patient to patient but may involve monitoring, surgery, radiation or chemotherapy, or a combination of these.
The name pilocytic astrocytoma comes from the pilocytic, or hair-like, appearance of the tumor, which is formed in the astrocytes, a star-shaped brain cell. It is referred to as a glioma because it is a tumor formed in the glial cells of the brain. The tumor tends to be contained in one area and doesn't usually spread to other tissues, although it may grow to a large size.
The most common site of pilocytic astrocytoma is the cerebellum, but it may also be found in the spinal cord. Depending on the exact site of the tumor, the symptoms may differ. They may include loss of coordination, vomiting, blurred vision, headache, slurred speech or seizures. Should a child or adult experience any of these symptoms, urgent medical attention should be sought.
Diagnosis will be made initially by neurological examination and then confirmed by a scan. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT) or positron emission tomography (PET) scan, or a combination thereof, will be done to establish the site and size of the tumor. A biopsy may be done to establish whether the tumor is benign or malignant.
Depending on the size and severity of the tumor and the resultant symptoms, treatment will be determined by the doctor. In some cases, where the pilocytic astrocytoma is attainable, surgery is recommended. With this type of cancer, it is often possible to remove the entire tumor. If not, radiation or chemotherapy may be recommended.
The pilocytic astrocytoma may cause a build-up of fluid in the brain. The surgeon may insert a shunt to drain this fluid and release pressure. Steroid drugs may be given to treat swelling and inflammation. If seizures are one of the symptoms, anticonvulsant medication may be given. Each patient is different and requires specialist diagnosis and treatment.
Prognosis is good for pilocytic astrocytoma, and recovery and survival rates are high when the patient is diagnosed and treated early. Continual monitoring is recommended, however, even after successful treatment. Some tumors may not require surgery but are watched closely for further development, in case they progress.
